Xenophobia: Senator Abdul Ningi Urges Nigeria to Cut Diplomatic Ties with South Africa Over Attacks on Citizens

Growing concerns over the safety of Nigerians living in South Africa have resurfaced at the Nigerian Senate, with lawmakers calling for stronger measures in response to repeated xenophobic violence. During Tuesday’s plenary session, Bauchi Central Senator Abdul Ningi urged the Federal Government to take what he described as a decisive step by suspending diplomatic relations with South Africa until the security of Nigerian citizens can be guaranteed.

His remarks came as concerns continue over attacks targeting foreign nationals in South Africa, particularly Nigerians, and amid reports that Nigerian authorities have been assisting willing citizens to return home.

Senator Ningi Calls for Tougher Diplomatic Response

Addressing fellow lawmakers, Senator Ningi argued that repeated condemnations of xenophobic violence have failed to produce meaningful change. According to him, diplomatic protests alone have not prevented Nigerians from being attacked, killed, or displaced during previous waves of violence.

The senator maintained that Nigeria should demonstrate a firmer stance by reviewing its diplomatic engagement with South Africa, insisting that the continued loss of Nigerian lives abroad demands stronger government action.

Ningi also questioned whether Nigerians should continue to face threats simply for living and operating businesses in another country, stressing that every citizen deserves protection regardless of where they reside.

Evacuation Efforts Continue

The senator referenced the ongoing evacuation of Nigerians who chose to leave South Africa following renewed security concerns. He claimed that more than 1,200 Nigerians were in the process of being evacuated, describing the development as evidence of the seriousness of the situation.

The Nigerian government has, on previous occasions of xenophobic unrest, coordinated voluntary evacuation programmes for citizens who wished to return home while also engaging South African authorities through diplomatic channels.

Background: A History of Xenophobic Violence

Xenophobic attacks have periodically erupted in South Africa over the past two decades, with migrants from several African countries—including Nigeria, Zimbabwe, Mozambique, Somalia and Ethiopia—often becoming targets.

Many of the incidents have involved looting of businesses, destruction of property, physical assaults and, in some cases, fatalities. The violence has frequently been linked to tensions surrounding unemployment, crime, economic inequality and competition over business opportunities, although analysts note that these issues do not justify attacks on foreign nationals.

Each major outbreak has triggered diplomatic discussions between Nigeria and South Africa, prompting calls for improved protection of foreign residents and stronger law enforcement responses.

Why the Debate Matters

The renewed discussion in the Senate highlights broader concerns about the safety of Nigerians living abroad and the role of government in protecting its citizens beyond the country‘s borders.

Nigeria and South Africa remain two of Africa’s largest economies and maintain significant diplomatic, commercial and educational ties. Any decision affecting bilateral relations could have implications for trade, investment, regional cooperation and the movement of citizens between both countries.

For many observers, the latest debate also raises questions about whether existing diplomatic engagements are sufficient to prevent future attacks or whether stronger policy measures should be considered.

What Happens Next?

At the time of reporting, Senator Ningi’s remarks represent a legislative call for stronger action rather than an official change in Nigeria’s foreign policy.

The Federal Government has not announced any decision to suspend diplomatic relations with South Africa. Any such move would require executive action following diplomatic and policy considerations.

Meanwhile, attention remains on efforts by both governments to address security concerns, protect foreign nationals and prevent further incidents of xenophobic violence.